Stones unite to support grieving Mick

Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger and fashion stylist L'Wren Scott arrive at the "Quinzaine des Realisateurs" at the 63rd Cannes Film Festival in this May 19, 2010 file photo. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler/Files

The Rolling Stones are “pulling together” to support Sir Mick Jagger following the death of L'Wren Scott.

The group - who have cancelled their tour of Australia and New Zealand, which was scheduled to begin today (19.03.14) - are “completely shocked” by the designer's apparent suicide on Monday (17.03.14) and say their main priority now is to help the singer, who had been in a relationship with the former model for 13 years.

Drummer Charlie Watts said: “Needless to say we are all completely shocked but our first thought is to support Mick at this awful time.

“We intend to come back to Australia and New Zealand as soon as it proves possible.”

Guitarist Ronnie Wood added: “This is such terrible news and right now the important thing is that we are all pulling together to offer Mick our support.”

Meanwhile, guitarist Keith Richards spoke of his shock at L'Wren's death, admitting the group never expected the tragedy.

He said: “No one saw this coming. Mick's always been my soul brother and we love him.

“We're thick as thieves and we're all feeling for the man. We really hate to disappoint our fans but we'll see everyone really soon.”

Yesterday (18.03.14), Mick made a short statement on his website paying tribute to his late girlfriend.

He wrote: “I am still struggling to understand how my lover and best friend could end her life in this tragic way.

“We spent many wonderful years together and had made a great life for ourselves, she had great presence and her talent was much admired, not least by me.

“I have been touched by the tributes that people have paid to her and also the personal messages of support that I have received. I will never forget her.”